Umdloti-based entrepreneur Jade Roberts works hard to run her business. But, it’s her role as mom to her children, one of whom has special needs, that truly holds her heart.
With her warm smile and bubbly manner, Jade’s presence feels immediately positive. As a successful businesswoman – she’s the owner of the recently opened Lila Moon Dry Bar in Salt Rock – she knows what it is to hustle. But, it’s her unwavering dedication to her children, Lila and Jackson, that really defines her. Her son Jackson was diagnosed with microcephaly, a condition in which a baby’s head is much smaller than expected for the child’s age at 10 months old. Microcephaly can cause severe complications, including developmental delays, seizures, trouble swallowing and speech problems. Jackson is now five years old and, although he has made considerable progress with his mobility, is unable to walk or speak.
THE DIAGNOSIS
Jackson’s developmental delays were noticeable from as early as four and a half months, but the official diagnosis came during the early days of the covid-19 lockdown. Despite initial dismissals from medical professionals, Jade’s maternal instinct insisted that something was amiss.
“When he was diagnosed, it felt like the world was collapsing. The feeling of ‘why did this happen?’ was overwhelming,” Jade says. Her persistence led to a series of tests and therapies, which eventually confirmed Jackson’s condition.
LEARNING ACCEPTANCE
Acceptance of Jackson’s condition was a significant hurdle, especially for Jade’s husband, Nick. “My husband battled for a few years, but I told him that this was an incredible blessing. It has humbled us and pulled our family closer together,” she explains. This period of adjustment brought the family together in ways they never imagined, fostering a deeper connection and mutual support system.
Jade’s daughter, Lila, who was only three when Jackson was diagnosed, also grew through this experience. “Lila is very protective of her brother,” says Jade. “She’s very aware of his needs and has learned Makaton sign language, which she would never have done if it wasn’t for what happened with Jackson. It’s just opened up doors to other journeys and families that we would never have been aware of.” Joining support groups and seeking play therapy for Lila has helped the family navigate their emotions and adapt to their new reality.
THE IMPACT OF THERAPY
Jackson’s developmental journey has been marked by numerous therapies, including occupational therapy (OT), physical therapy (PT), feeding therapy, and speech therapy. The initial prognosis was bleak, but Jackson has defied expectations. “He wants to move so badly; he has the drive and determination,” Jade says with pride. “He commando crawls on his tummy and has recently started to get up on all fours.” The support from therapists and the special needs community has been invaluable.
In September last year, Jackson started at Bloom Special Needs School in Umhlali. This transition was significant for the Roberts family. “The school has been incredible for Jackson. He has his own facilitator who is attuned to his needs, and he loves being there.”
This move has also allowed Jade some reprieve, knowing that Jackson is in a safe and nurturing environment. However, she admits that finding time for self-care remains a challenge. “My husband always encourages me to take time for myself, but I just want to give everything to my children.”
STRENGTH IN COMMUNITY
Through support groups, Jade has found a community of parents facing similar challenges. “Connecting with other parents has been a lifeline. It’s important to know you’re not alone and that there are others who understand your struggles.”
She stresses the importance of avoiding overwhelming online searches and instead seeking support from community groups and professionals. “Don’t rush into decisions out of panic. Take a deep breath and channel your energy into meaningful research and support networks.”
She hopes that her family’s situation can offer hope and guidance to other people navigating similar challenges. “We’ve learnt that it really takes a village to raise a child, and at some point, our experience might help other people so we just need to keep going!”
Details: Lila Moon Dry Bars, Eden Village, Salt Rock; 073 944 5555;
IG: @lila_moon_dry_bars; FB: Lila Moon Dry Bars
Text: Jennifer Campbell
Photographs: NALA PHOTOGRAPHY & CENTAINE PHOTOGRAPHY
